Cape Verde sit in the driver’s seat coming into their match with Burkina Faso. The Stallion’s were unlucky not to get a point against Cameroon, let alone all three and of the lot seem the most tactically proficient in Group A.
Captain Bertrand Traore will not want to leave Africa early and an all-out battle will ensue at the Olembe Stadium. While securing all three points against Ethiopia, The Blue Sharks’ hopes are dwindling as the Covid numbers in their camp maintain an upward spike.
A crucial fixture for Burkina Faso against a fighting Cape Verde is bound to produce fireworks in this #TotalEnergiesAFCON2021 matchday two kick-off.
Africa Cup of Nations – Group A
Thursday January 13
Olembe Stadium
21:00
To Win
Cape Verde 22/10 | Draw 16/10 | Burkina Faso 14/10
Cape Verde
Cape Verde were forced to start their opening match without coach Pedro Bubista, in quarantine after testing positive for Covid, just six substitutes on the bench, with nine players isolating, and two injuries.
It really was an uphill battle for the Blue Sharks, but an early red card for Ethiopia meant they were given a window of hope. After consistently working the cross, a pinpoint Julio Taveres close range header locked in all three points for Cape Verde. The Ethiopian keeper had a busy day, producing several saves including a defelcted shot from his own defender.
Cape Verde winger Mendes “Garry” Rodrigues was a blessing to watch in a game that was all but over due to a red card, with pace and skilfull maneauvours the 31-year-old Fernebache player is one to watch.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso did not get the result they wanted, but it was a performance to hold their heads high over. A little more discipline in the challenges, without losing the grit they obviously want to portray in the tournament and Burkina Faso will find themselves progressing to the round of 16.
Aston Villa forward and captain of Burkina Faso, Bertrand Traore is without question the go to player for The Stallions, but he just wasn’t good enough against Cameroon. He started out on the right wing, and eventually found himself playing in a more attacking midfield role. If he can find the form, the team will elevate to another level.
The Stallion’s press was on occasion successful against the hosts and finding the right moment to do it more often could prove key in getting three points. The most impressive part about Burkina Faso is their transition when they win the ball, they are quick and decisive, but the final third’s end product needs polishing.
Prediction: Burkina Faso draw no bet (6/10)
The Blue Sharks sustained the pressure on their opposition last time out, but playing just short of a full match against 10-men could be detrimental coming into the fixture with a much more organised and determined Burkina Faso. This encounter is a tough one to call, but I do not see Burkina Faso losing. Bet on the draw not bet Burkina Faso at 6/10, or just the straight draw at 16/10.
